Depilatory Hair Removal

Using depilatory hair removal products is a painless procedure to clear unwanted hair growth on the superficial skin.

BeautiSecrets Staff

There are different ways to get rid of unwanted hair from the skin. Whether it is stubborn hair that appear on the arms or the back, people go for a wide range of hair removal methods including shaving, waxing, and laser therapy to get rid of unwanted hair. However, the quickest way to say 'goodbye' to undesirable hair is to use the depilatory hair removal creams.

Method

Although it is a temporary solution, this technique is one of the fastest to remove hair. As we all know, protein is an important constituent of hair strands. The chemicals in depilatory creams go deep into the hair shaft and destroy the protein bonds. This weakens the hair and they eventually get detached from the skin. The chemicals commonly used to make these depilatory creams are sodium and calcium thioglycolate.

The products are sold in a variety of forms including gels, spray and creams. Simply apply any of these products directly on the skin and then let it remain for 5-10 minutes. Once the stipulated time is over, wipe it away with a clean cloth. You will notice that the area of the skin where the product was applied is clean, completely devoid of hair. Before trying any of these options, consult a doctor to know which one will suit your skin type.

How Long Do The Results Last

As aforementioned, the technique is a short-term remedy and so don't expect the skin to remain hairless for several days. Depending upon the individual health, the result may last up to two weeks.

Myths

Many people say that this technique takes out the hair from the root. However, this is far from reality and the truth is that it removes the hair superficially. If hair were being removed from the root, hair regrowth was next to impossible, which is not the case in this technique. This method temporarily reduces the length of hair shaft, which regrows to its normal height after a stipulated period of time.

Drawbacks

The only drawback is the unpleasant odor that the cream produces on application. The smell is similar to rotten egg and is mainly due to the chemical reaction of thioglycoate with oxygen (air). Although the smell is unpleasant, it is certainly not beyond tolerable levels.

Caution

People with sensitive skin need to think twice before following this technique. The products are usually not applied on the facial area, as the skin is very sensitive. Also, once the cream is applied, make sure that it is wiped away within 10 minutes. Keeping it for more than 10 minutes can damage the skin, the main reason being the presence of strong chemicals. Also, it has to be used as instructed by the medical practitioner or as indicated on the label of the product, otherwise, it may cause burns and severe irritation.

Allergy Test

Before applying the cream or lotion, first apply it in small amounts on the skin. Allow it to remain for 10 to 15 minutes and then remove it. Check how the skin reacts. If you feel irritated or the skin develops a rash, it means, you are not a candidate for this technique.

Disclaimer:The information provided in this article is solely for educating the reader. It is not intended to be a substitute for the advice of a medical expert.